How to get proof of your no-claims bonus

You’ve been a careful driver for years, nurturing your no-claims bonus so that it’ll reward you with a valuable discount on your car insurance. So, when you switch insurance providers for a better deal, you’ll definitely want to take it with you. To do that, though, you’ll need proof.

Written by

Kate Hughes

Insurance expert

Last Updated

4 APRIL 2023

4 min read

How to get proof of no-claims bonus

Your insurance provider won’t always send you proof of a no-claims bonus (or discount – it’s the same thing) automatically when you switch.

Some will ask your old provider for the proof of no-claims discount themselves – they’ll let you know if they do.

If not, you’ll need to get proof yourself. There are a few ways to do this:

Look for the details on your renewal letter – you may be able to access this in your online account
Look on the cancellation notice you’ll receive if you’re switching
Contact your provider and ask them to send you the proof.

Once you’ve forwarded proof to your new provider, they should confirm they’ve received it. If you don’t hear anything, follow up to make sure they have it.

How long do I have to give proof of my no-claims discount?

If you’ve switched to a new provider and stated your no-claims bonus (NCB) when you were quoted, you’ll need to give proof of the NCB – typically within seven to 21 days. If you can’t provide it by then, your insurance may be cancelled or your premium could go up.

How do I know how much no-claims bonus I have?

When you get a quote for car insurance, you may be asked how much no-claims bonus you’ve built up over the years. If you’re not sure, your renewal letter or email is a good place to start. This’ll be sent out before your renewal date, meaning you’ll still have time to switch.

Alternatively, get in touch with your insurance provider.

Why your no-claims bonus matters 

Your no-claims discount (NCD) plays a vital role in the way your car insurance premium is calculated. In fact, although discounts vary by provider, the Association of British Insurers (ABI) says that one claim-free year could net you up to 30% off, rising to 60% if you manage five years without making a claim. 

Your discount accrues for each year you’re on the road without making a claim on your car insurance. The longer you drive without a claim, the more discount you could potentially get. Insurance providers set a maximum limit, often at around five years, but some will offer considerably more.

What counts as proof of no claims?

Insurance providers accept (and give) proof in different ways.

So, when you switch, it’s a good idea to check what proof of no claims your new car insurance provider will need. Ask them what details they need to see on the document – the registration number of the car the discount applies to, for example – and whether they’ll accept a copy or scan.

If they need the original, make sure you keep a copy for your own records.

How long does my no-claims bonus last?

Your no-claims bonus will last for two years, after your car insurance has expired. So, if you don’t drive for more than two years, you’ll likely lose your no-claims bonus and have to start building it up again. If you’re renewing or switching your car insurance policy, then it’ll just continue to build. Unless you make a claim, of course.

Protecting your no-claims discount

Claiming for an accident where you’re at fault could mean losing that valuable no-claims discount. Some drivers choose to pay a fee, on top of their insurance premium, to protect it.

But this doesn’t necessarily mean your premiums won’t rise if you have a collision. Providers look at your driving history when they calculate your premium, so an accident could have an impact on how much you pay for your car insurance, even if you have an no-claims bonus.